The story of an unsung gay hero who changed the world
The Kings Head Theatre in Angel is a space in the back of the gorgeous, ornate Kings Head Pub. They’re always great with original, often subversive and adventurous LGBT programming – many shows that started here have gone on to gain critical acclaim and large audiences.
The latest is called “The Last Song Of Oliver Sipple”, running for two shows only on 13th and 14th July at 2pm. Written by the OFFIE nominate David Hendon, directed by Peter Taylor and starring Jackson Pentland, this one-man show details the true story of Oliver Sipple, who in 1975 prevented the assassination of president Gerald Ford, by grabbing the arm of his assailant.
It was an act that spared the life of the US leader, with potentially world-changing effect. But after Sipple was outed as gay in the press, he was ostracized rather than celebrated. This play explores the repercussions not just for him personally, but for how people saw LGBT people at the time.
“This is an incredible story but hardly anyone is aware of it and, 30 years after Oliver Sipple’s death, we wanted to bring him to the much wider attention he deserves,” Hendon said.
“The play examines the nature of heroism, the right to privacy and how a single random incident can change a life forever.
“We are very excited it has been chosen by the King’s Head for the festival and look forward to introducing audiences to Oliver and his remarkable story.”
The Last Song of Oliver Sipple is on at The Kings Head Theatre, 155 Upper Street, N1 1QN. 13th – 14th July, 2pm. Tickets available at kingsheadtheatre.com
READ MORE:
There’s a provocative new play coming to The Kings Head Theatre…
